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Thursday, February 5, 2009

The Van Pelt - Reunion!

Posted by Ezra Ace Caraeff on Thu, Feb 5, 2009 at 10:37 AM

c06e/1233858075-vp.jpg

Every year I travel to Austin, TX for SXSW, but (don't tell our publisher) it's mostly for the tacos. But this year I'll have another reason—that isn't a delicious tofu migas breakfast taco—to be there: the Van Pelt are performing a reunion show as part of the annual music festival!

The New York based band disbanded over a decade ago, leaving behind a few recordings (1997's Sultans Of Sentiment is their best LP, while their final s/t EP features their finest four minutes as a band; the gorgeous "The Speeding Train."), and an all too quite legacy. While speak/sing frontman Chris Leo might best be known for his last name (he's Ted Leo's baby brother), and the band's ex/future member list is quite impressive ( Jets to Brazil, Blonde Redhead, The Lapse), the Van Pelt still remain one of indie rock's most overlooked bands. Leo's vivid songwriting, and spoken delivery, resemble poetry (in a good, non-Jim Morrison, way) respectfully intertwining with his band's tempered instrumental assembly. Bands may come and go, but the Van Pelt are one of the few musical acts that I miss terribly.

The Van Pelt reunion, Saturday March 21st, at the Radio Room. Look for me there, I'll be the one up front, crying like a little girl with a skinned knee.

LISTEN:







The Van Pelt - "The Speeding Train"

Thanks to Rubin Recommends for the tip.

Photo: blackmagicplastic

 

Comments (6) RSS

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1
Holy Fucking Shit!
Posted by Rob on February 5, 2009 at 10:46 AM · Report
2
I have to stay in town for this!!!
Posted by paperbrigade on February 5, 2009 at 10:50 AM · Report
3
We are VERY excited to have The Van Pelt play this show. http://www.slipproductions.com - Stay tuned for the full lineup! But yes, be in Austin on March 21!
Posted by slipaustin on February 5, 2009 at 11:16 AM · Report
4
This is most excellent.

Though I was really more of a Lapse fan.
Posted by Cary Clarke on February 5, 2009 at 11:20 AM · Report
5
"the band's ex/future member list is quite impressive ( Jets to Brazil, Blonde Redhead, The Lapse"....... NATIVE NOD). Are you high on poo? How can you miss that? Gimme a Native Nod reunion. VAN PELT IS WATERED DOWN NATIVE NOD.
Posted by ROM on February 5, 2009 at 11:44 AM · Report
6
So dated!
Posted by jake on February 5, 2009 at 1:39 PM · Report

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